Driving for Work: Mythbusters
52 common misconceptions – and the facts employers and drivers need to know
Myth 20: I don’t need to tell my employer what medication I’m taking – that’s my business
Many prescription and over-the-counter medications can impair driving ability, affecting concentration, reaction time, coordination, and judgement.
Drivers have a responsibility to check whether any medication they are taking may affect their fitness to drive, and employers have a legitimate interest in knowing when a driver’s medical condition or treatment could pose a safety risk.
Employees are not required to share detailed medical information, but they are obliged to declare that they may be impaired.
Employers should create a culture where drivers feel safe reporting this without fear of penalty and have clear processes for managing temporary fitness-to-drive issues.
Driver takeaway:
Check the label or leaflet of any medication, prescribed or over the counter, before driving. If it may cause drowsiness or impairment, tell your manager you may not be fit to drive.
Manager takeaway:
Create a culture where drivers feel safe reporting medication-related fitness concerns without fear of penalty or intrusion. Have a clear process for managing temporary fitness issues such as redeployment, adjusted duties, or a rest day.
